Very late update (sorry). Patient had successful surgerty to stabilize the neck. There had been hope that the broken C5 vertebra would just heal, but now it is fixed also using a bit of bone from the right hip. recovery from surgery fine (limp over). Brain issues seem almost resolved. Verbal problem of confidently using the wrong word (eg "ice" for "water") almost over, especially when rested. Behavioral problem of renewed immaturity definitely over. Patient has become a patient and prudent adult again (this time growing up took weeks not decades -- it was surreal). The titanium plate has still not been inserted (last delay because of a fever due to a urinary tract infection cured with 3 days of IV antibiotic). Patient Verrry bored with hospital. ALso afraid of the operation (as is normal). Decision on whether to insert it next week is imminent (there will be a third MRI and if it looks like the second or better, the plate goes in).

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